The quantum number which determines the shape of the orbital is

Options

A. Principal quantum number
B. Azimuthal quantum number
C. Magnetic quantum number
D. Spin quantum number

Answer

To solve the question regarding which quantum number determines the shape of the orbital, we can follow these steps:

### Step 1: Identify the Types of Quantum Numbers
There are four types of quantum numbers:
1. Principal Quantum Number (n)
2. Azimuthal Quantum Number (l)
3. Magnetic Quantum Number (m_l)
4. Spin Quantum Number (s)

### Step 2: Understand the Role of Each Quantum Number
- **Principal Quantum Number (n)**: This quantum number indicates the energy level and size of the orbital but does not determine its shape.
- **Azimuthal Quantum Number (l)**: This quantum number is also known as the angular momentum quantum number. It determines the shape of the orbital. The value of l can be 0, 1, 2, ..., (n-1).
- **Magnetic Quantum Number (m_l)**: This quantum number describes the orientation of the orbital in space but does not determine its shape.
- **Spin Quantum Number (s)**: This quantum number describes the spin of the electron and is not related to the shape of the orbital.

### Step 3: Conclusion
From the above analysis, we can conclude that the quantum number which determines the shape of the orbital is the **Azimuthal Quantum Number (l)**.

### Final Answer
The quantum number which determines the shape of the orbital is the **Azimuthal Quantum Number (l)**.

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